Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and versatile, this Classic Chicken Salad recipe is exactly what you need. Whether served as a sandwich, over a bed of greens, or paired with crackers, this creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for lunch or dinner. With tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a tangy dressing, this chicken salad is a staple you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. It’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients to come together, making it a go-to option when you’re short on time but want something tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Chicken Salad is a winner because it combines simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal. The chicken provides protein and a hearty base, while the mayonnaise gives it that creamy richness everyone loves. With the added crunch of celery and the hint of fresh dill, this chicken salad bursts with flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for meal prepping, making it easy to have a healthy, homemade lunch ready to go all week. Plus, it’s easy to adjust to your preferences—whether you like it extra tangy or creamy, you can make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Cooked chopped chicken or shredded chicken
• Mayonnaise
• Celery
• Green onion
• Dijon mustard
• Seasoned salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh or dried dill (optional)

Variations

• Add Fruits: You can mix in fruits like grapes, apples, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Nuts for Crunch: Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Greek Yogurt Substitute: Swap half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to give it a bit of heat.
• Herbs: You can also try adding fresh parsley, tarragon, or chives for a different herb flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped or shredded chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, and thinly sliced green onion.

Step 2: Add Seasoning

Stir in Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, black pepper, and fresh or dried dill (if using). Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Taste the chicken salad and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the chicken salad as a sandwich, over a salad, in a wrap, or with crackers. It’s also delicious on a croissant or whole wheat bread.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poach fresh chicken breasts for this recipe.
• Storage: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make It Ahead: This chicken salad actually tastes even better after a few hours or overnight in the fridge as the flavors have time to meld.
• Customize Texture: If you prefer a chunkier chicken salad, leave the chicken in larger pieces. For a smoother consistency, shred the chicken further.
• Keep it Cold: If serving at a picnic or outdoor event, keep the chicken salad cold by storing it in a cooler with ice packs.

How to Serve

• As a Sandwich: Spread the chicken salad on your favorite bread or toast and add lettuce for extra crunch.
• Over a Salad: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
• In a Wrap: Roll the chicken salad in a tortilla with fresh vegetables for a quick and portable meal.
• With Crackers: Enjoy the chicken salad as a snack or appetizer with your favorite crunchy crackers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will stay fresh and flavorful, so it’s great for making ahead and having quick lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

Freezing this chicken salad is not recommended as the mayonnaise and vegetables can change in texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the chicken alone and mix it with the other ingredients once thawed.

Reheating

This chicken salad is best served cold, so no reheating is needed. Simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.

2. Can I make this chicken salad without mayo?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter alternative to mayonnaise.

3. Can I add fruits to this chicken salad?

Yes, adding fruits like grapes, apples, or cranberries adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

4. Can I use other herbs besides dill?

Yes, you can use fresh parsley, tarragon, or chives for a different flavor profile.

5. How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?

This chicken salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

6. Can I make this chicken salad spicy?

Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or jalapenos for some extra heat.

7. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use cooked or fresh chicken, as frozen chicken should be fully cooked and cooled before adding to the salad.

8. Can I serve this as a meal prep option?

Yes, this chicken salad is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.

9. How do I make this recipe lighter?

Use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the chicken salad.

10. Can I freeze this chicken salad?

Freezing the chicken salad is not recommended due to the mayonnaise and vegetables. However, you can freeze the chicken on its own and prepare the salad fresh later.

Conclusion

This Classic Chicken Salad is a simple and satisfying dish that you can make in minutes. With tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Whether you serve it as a sandwich, on a salad, or with crackers, this chicken salad is sure to please everyone. You can easily customize it to your liking, and it’s great for meal prepping. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious and versatile meal!

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